Eric Pickles to be declared an Site of Special Scientific Interest

It has been revealed by Natural England that MP Eric Pickles is to be declared an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) later this week. Details are sketchy at present, though the range of biodiversity found on Mr Pickles has long been recognised by conservationists. It is thought that the classification is being imposed specifically to protect a rare lichen, Micarea Parva, found on his southern reaches, and never before discovered in the Brentwood area.

Mr Pickles declined to comment to our reporters, but a close friend said he was ‘delighted’ by the news. He told us ‘Eric is very proud of this achievement, and he sees this as another step on his way to achieving National Park status.’